It is hard to find alternatives for a traditional spice such as turmeric. Not only is turmeric’s aromatic and slightly bitter flavor challenging to replicate, to find another spice that is as therapeutic as turmeric is almost impossible. However, some dishes need turmeric more for coloring, and in such cases, it is possible to find its substitute. In other cases, some readymade masalas can work wonders in dishes that involve the preparation of a curry. Let’s take a look at some of the perfect alternatives for turmeric that’ll help in bringing out the vibrant color and taste in your dish.
Table of Contents
Best Substitutes For Turmeric For Coloring
Apart from being used as a flavoring spice, turmeric in some cases is added for its rich and vibrant color too. Adding a pinch of turmeric to beverages or dishes gives them a warm sun-like yellow color, however, its bitter taste can be an obstruction sometimes.
f you are looking for alternatives that can give you a similar color but not the bitterness, here are a few options that you can consider:
1. Annatto
Holy Natural - The Wonder of World Annatto Seeds | Bixa Orellano - 100 gm
6% OffIf you are searching for something that is not at all bitter (like turmeric) but is sweet with a slightly peppery flavor, annatto might be just the perfect substitute. Unlike turmeric, the addition of annatto adds a sweet flavor that blends in perfectly with the dish’s taste, and just like turmeric, annatto gives the dish a warm yellow color.
2. Saffron
LION BRAND SAFFRON Original Kashmir Lacha Saffron/Kesar/Keshar (Certified Grade A) for Biryani, Beauty, Improved Health and Tilak (Pack of 1 (1gram))
12% Off
Amazon Brand - Vedaka Coriander (Dhania) whole, 200 g
(as of November 17, 2024 22:23 GMT +05:30 - More infoProduct prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.)
The addition of saffron in a dish will give it a similar yellow color, thus making saffron a great alternative for turmeric in terms of color. However, the same cannot be said about the taste, for saffron, quite unlike turmeric, has a honey-like floral taste. The other noteworthy point is the strength of its flavor. You must take note of its quantity while adding saffron to a dish, for its flavor is strong and can easily dominate the taste of the dish to which it is added.
Best Substitutes For Turmeric For Flavour
Now that we have discussed the various alternatives of turmeric that can be used as natural food coloring, let us not deviate from the basic function of turmeric, its taste. Traditionally used as a flavoring for dishes, turmeric is known for its slightly-bitter taste that blends well with other spices. However, a certain active compound in turmeric, known as curcumin, can cause allergic reactions. So for those who are allergic to curcumin, it is important that we discuss some substitutes that’ll make sure that you don’t miss turmeric:
3. Mustard Seeds
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The taste of mustard seeds is somewhat similar to that of turmeric’s, especially when it is added conservatively to the dish. These seeds are a popular substitute since they are widely available throughout the world. Furthermore, their addition to the meal produces a similar yellowish tint. Keep in mind that mustard seeds tend to be strong in flavor, hence their addition must be in a regulated fashion, else your dish will end up tasting bad.
4. Ginger Powder
Dry Ginger Powder, 50 grams
(as of November 17, 2024 16:06 GMT +05:30 - More infoProduct prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.)Your search for a healthy alternative for turmeric might just come to an end with this one. Just like turmeric, ginger is a powerful anti-inflammatory agent, and its taste is very similar to that of turmeric. Considered to be an ideal substitute for turmeric when consumed on the basis of its health benefits, the ginger powder can also bring out a certain stingy flavor in your dish.
5. Cumin Seeds
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With their mildly bitter taste, the addition of cumin might just the perfect substitute for turmeric when it comes to its flavoring aspects. As a much stronger spice when compared to turmeric, cumin must be added in small amounts, for its aroma and flavor might overcome the taste of the dish, which might then end up tasting bad.
Also Read: Health Benefits Of Fennel Seeds
6. Curry Powder
Ship Madras Curry Powder No 1 Exporter Of Curry Masala|15+ Authentic Whole Indian Spices Used|Multi-Purpose Use For Various Veg Or Non-Veg Curries & Sabzis- Curry Powder,1.391 Pounds
8% OffCurry powder is a mixture of sweet and savory spices, thus contributing to its unique flavor. Turmeric and cumin are some of its ingredients, which give the curry powder its earthy taste. Other spices such as cinnamon and clove, add a sweet flavor to the mix. Moreover, the addition of pepper into the mix contributes to its spicy flavor.
Final Words
As you are now well-aware of the substitutes of turmeric, it would be our advice to you that if you ever run out of turmeric powder, you must go and buy some, for there is nothing that can provide your dish with a traditional turmeric-like taste than a pinch of turmeric itself! However, if you are allergic to curcumin (the active compound in turmeric), you might just want to take a look at this list and pick the right option that’ll fit your needs in terms of flavor and color.
